Sydney Wine Tasting-Southern Highlands with Pick up & drop off

Traveling from Sydney and craving a full day of wine, scenery, and boutique charm? This Sydney Wine Tasting – Southern Highlands tour offers an enticing escape just over an hour away from the city. With a dedicated guide, private vehicle, and visits to some of the region’s top wineries, it promises a relaxed yet refined experience for wine lovers and curious explorers alike.

What really makes this tour stand out? First, the casual luxury of boutique cellar doors like Centennial Vineyards and Peppergreen Estate. Then, the scenic drive through rolling hills that makes the journey as enjoyable as the tastings. Lastly, the personalized, private guide experience ensures you get insider insights and a smooth day.

A possible consideration? The 8.5-hour duration might feel lengthy for some, especially if you prefer shorter outings. Overall, it’s ideal for couples, groups celebrating, or anyone keen to enjoy a curated wine adventure with comfort and style.

Key Points

• Exclusive winery visits with admission included at all stops.
• Private guide and vehicle, ensuring a personalized and seamless experience.
• Flexible lunch options in Bowral, with several quality venues and some free time.
• Scenic drives through the picturesque Southern Highlands countryside.
• Tastings of award-winning wines, highlighting the region’s cool-climate specialties.
• Free cancellation, offering peace of mind if plans change.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Centennial Vineyards: The First Stop

The tour kicks off at Centennial Vineyards in Bowral, a flagship in the region known for its award-winning cool-climate wines. Here, you’ll spend about an hour sampling wines amid stunning vineyard views that are perfect for snapping photos. Guests love the exceptional hospitality and how the estate “combines award-winning wines with picturesque landscapes,” making it a refreshing start to the day. The tasting experience is included, giving you a chance to compare their chardonnays, pinots, and reds.

Peppergreen Estate: A Historic Charm

Next, your group heads to Peppergreen Estate in Berrima, a historic village that adds a dash of old-world charm. The estate offers a sophisticated tasting environment and artisanal experiences—think premium cool-climate wines paired with a touch of elegance. Reviewers mention that “Joey, the guide, took us to some incredible wineries,” emphasizing the personalized attention paid to guests. You’ll be here for about an hour, and the tasting fee is included.

Bendooley Estate Book Barn: A Unique Venue

The third stop is Bendooley Estate, famous for its beautifully restored Georgian homestead and world-class vineyard. Aside from wine tastings, this stop is a highlight for its blend of history and contemporary elegance. It’s an ideal spot to take photos, browse the book barn, or enjoy a quick walk through the estate. The tasting here, like at previous stops, is included, and visitors frequently remark on the “beautifully restored” atmosphere that adds a special touch to the day.

Artemis Wines: Boutique Excellence

Moving on, Artemis Wines offers a more intimate experience. This boutique winery focuses on small-batch wines that embody precision and elegance. Visitors often comment on the passion for craftsmanship and how the wines reflect the region’s true character. The tasting duration is about 45 minutes, providing plenty of time to savor their offerings.

Lunch and Free Time

At this point, the group enjoys about an hour for lunch—either at Pepper Green Estate, Centennial Vineyards, or Bendooley Estate—or in Bowral’s town center. Options include hearty steaks, chicken dishes, pizzas, or more refined eateries, depending on your preference. The flexibility here lets you tailor your experience, whether you want a sit-down meal or a quick bite.

Return to Sydney

The day wraps up with a scenic 1.5-hour drive back to Sydney CBD, where your guide will take care of the driving, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. This part of the journey is perfect for sharing impressions or reviewing your favorite wines.

What Makes This Tour Valuable?

Wine tastings included at all the wineries mean you get to sample a wide variety of cool-climate wines without any extra cost. This is especially appealing if you want to explore different styles and producers without the hassle of organizing separate visits.

The private guide and vehicle are standout features. This arrangement ensures a personalized experience, making it easy to ask questions, get insider insights, and enjoy the day at your own pace. One reviewer praised the guide, Joey, for taking them to “some incredible wineries,” highlighting the quality of local knowledge and friendly attitude.

The scenic drive through Southern Highlands is a draw in itself. You’ll pass rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages — perfect for those who appreciate landscapes almost as much as wine.

Flexibility for lunch options and free time means the tour caters to different tastes and energy levels. Whether you want a sit-down meal or a quick snack, you can tailor the experience accordingly.

The Value of the Pricing

At $322.44 per person, this tour offers a lot, especially considering the admission fees to all wineries are included. The price covers transportation, a guide, bottled water, and tastings, which makes it competitive for a full-day, curated experience. Comparing this to independent visits, it’s a convenient way to get insider access without the hassle of planning each stop.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest mentioned, “We had a terrific day with Kookaburra Tours. Joey was an excellent guide, and took us to some incredible wineries. Thank you, will definitely do this tour again!” This highlights the personalized attention and quality guide service.

Another reviewer appreciated the stunning views and excellent wine selection—common themes that resonate with anyone looking for a memorable day out. The fact that the tour operates seven days a week from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm gives flexibility for planning.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to discover the cool-climate wines of the Southern Highlands without the stress of self-driving. It’s also perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, or groups of friends who want a relaxed yet luxurious day. If you enjoy scenic drives, boutique wineries, and personalized service, this tour ticks all the boxes.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer shorter trips, this 8.5-hour journey might feel lengthy. But for those wanting a comprehensive, well-curated exploration of this beautiful wine region, it’s hard to beat.

Final Thoughts

This Sydney Wine Tasting – Southern Highlands tour offers a well-rounded experience blending top-notch wine tastings, scenic countryside, and personalized service. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the region’s best wineries without the hassle of organizing transport or tasting arrangements yourself.

The inclusion of all tastings, combined with the comfort of a private guide, provides great value for the price. The flexible lunch options and scenic drive add to the appeal, making it suitable for those who want a leisurely, enriching day out.

In the end, this tour caters to curious wine explorers, romantic couples, or groups celebrating a special milestone. It’s a chance to savor the best of southern New South Wales and return to Sydney with a refreshed palate and beautiful memories.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including stops, tasting sessions, and travel time.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the tour price, but there are several options in Bowral and at estate venues, allowing you to choose your preferred dining experience.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are tastings included?
Yes, all wine tastings at the visited wineries are included in the price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation, provided you do so at least 24 hours in advance.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a private vehicle with a guide is included, making the journey comfortable and hassle-free.

This tour provides an inviting, well-organized way to explore one of New South Wales’ top wine regions, with enough flexibility, comfort, and insider access to make it a memorable day.